How to Forward Calls on iPhone: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Need to redirect incoming calls to another number? You're not alone—millions of iPhone users set up call forwarding for work travel, phone repairs, or juggling multiple devices. Here's everything you need to know to get it done in minutes.

What Is iPhone Call Forwarding and Why You Need It

Call forwarding on your iPhone automatically redirects incoming calls to another phone number you specify. When someone dials your iPhone, the call routes to your chosen destination—whether that's your home phone, work line, or colleague's device.

Here's why people love this feature:

• Never miss important calls during meetings or travel

• Keep one number active while switching between devices

• Share call responsibilities with team members or family

• Avoid international roaming charges by forwarding to local numbers

How to Call Forward on iPhone: 4 Simple Methods

Method 1: Phone Codes (Fastest Option)

This method works with most carriers and takes less than 60 seconds. Here's how it works:

To turn on call forwarding:

1. Open your Phone app
2. Dial *72 followed by the 10-digit number (no spaces)
3. Press the call button
4. Wait for a confirmation beep or message

To turn off call forwarding:

1. Dial *73
2. Press call
3. Listen for confirmation

To check if it's working:

• Dial *72# and press call
• Your carrier sends a text or voice message with the status

Method 2: Using iPhone Settings (If Supported by Your Carrier)

Some iPhone users see a Call Forwarding option under Settings → Apps → Phone → Call Forwarding.

Here's how:

• Go to Settings → Apps → Phone → Call Forwarding
• Toggle on Call Forwarding
• Tap "Forward To" and enter the number
• Tap Back to save

Method 3: Carrier Apps (Advanced Control)

Most major carriers offer call forwarding through their apps. This method gives you more control over when and how calls get forwarded.

For Verizon users:

1. Open the My Verizon app
2. Go to Account → Manage Products & Apps
3. Select Call Forwarding
4. Enter your forwarding number and save

For AT&T users:

1. Open the myAT&T app
2. Navigate to Manage Features
3. Choose Call Forwarding
4. Set up your preferences

For T-Mobile users:

1. Open the T-Mobile app
2. Go to Account → Line Settings
3. Select Call Forwarding
4. Configure your settings

Why use the app method? You get options like forwarding only when busy, setting different numbers for different times, and managing multiple forwarding rules.

Method 4: Customer Service (Full Support)

When all else fails, your carrier's customer service can set everything up for you.

1. Call your carrier's customer service number
2. Say "call forwarding" when prompted
3. Provide the representative with your forwarding number
4. Ask them to confirm it's working

This method works best if you have questions about pricing or need help with complex forwarding rules.

Call Forwarding Costs (What You'll Actually Pay)

Here's the reality about call forwarding costs:

Monthly fees by carrier:

• Verizon: $5-10/month depending on your plan
• AT&T: Free on unlimited plans, $5/month on others
• T-Mobile: Free on most current plans
• Smaller carriers: $3-15/month typically

International forwarding warning: Forwarding calls to international numbers can cost $20+ monthly, plus you'll pay international rates for each call. Consider alternatives like Google Voice for overseas forwarding.

Smart Alternatives When Standard Forwarding Isn't Right

Sometimes traditional call forwarding doesn't fit your needs. Here are smart alternatives:

Google Voice (Free Option)

Think of Google Voice as a virtual phone number that can ring multiple devices at once.

How it works:

1. Sign up for a free Google Voice number
2. Give people your Google Voice number instead of your iPhone number
3. Configure it to ring your iPhone and any other numbers simultaneously

Best for: People who want more control and don't mind using a different phone number.

Dual SIM Setup (iPhone XS and Newer)

If you have a newer iPhone, you can use two phone numbers simultaneously.

How it helps: Keep your main number active while using a second SIM for specific situations or contacts.

Best for: Business users who need separate work and personal numbers.

Troubleshooting Common Call Forwarding Problems

When to Use Call Forwarding (Real-World Scenarios)

• Business travel: Forward your work number to your personal iPhone when traveling. You'll avoid roaming charges while staying reachable for important calls.

• Phone repairs: Your iPhone is getting fixed but you can't miss calls. Forward everything to a temporary device or family member's phone.

• Team coverage: Customer service teams forward calls between shifts. Sales teams route leads to available representatives.

• Vacation backup: Forward your work number to a colleague covering your responsibilities while you're away.

Privacy and Security Considerations

What you should know: When you forward calls, the receiving phone sees the original caller's number. Some carriers log forwarding activity in your account.

For sensitive calls: Consider Google Voice or similar services offering better privacy controls. They don't expose your main carrier details to third parties.

When forwarding to shared phones: Tell recipients about privacy expectations. They'll answer calls meant for you and might accidentally share sensitive information.

Your Next Steps: Setting Up Call Forwarding Today

Call forwarding on iPhone is easier than most people think. Here’s a quick action plan:

1. Try phone codes first (*72 + target number) — the fastest way on most carriers
2. Use your carrier’s app for advanced options like conditional forwarding
3. Check your iPhone Settings → Phone → Call Forwarding — if your carrier supports it, it’s the simplest way to set “always forward”
4. Consider Google Voice or a second SIM if carrier forwarding costs too much or you need more flexibility
5. Test your setup by calling your number from another phone to be sure it works as expected

The whole process takes just a few minutes — and after that, you can stop worrying about missed calls. Whether your iPhone is in for repair, you’re traveling, or you just want smarter call management, now you know exactly how to stay reachable.

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